Filtration is the process of separating the liquid and solid particles from a specific mixture. The purpose may be to isolate the particles or purify the liquid. In the case of aquasana water filters, the goal is to clean the water to make it potable and safe to drink and use. Fluid is passed through a membrane. Solid particles which can either be rough or fine are removed in this process. Contaminants as well as bacteria can also be removed using the filtration process. This is commonly used in water treatment. The liquid passes through pores where particles will either be sifted or let through. The thickness and material of the filter are also important in determining the outcome of the process.
Filtration usually occurs in several steps. Usually, the coarser particles are filtered first, followed by the finer ones. An aquasana water filter uses three steps to clean water. First is the five micron sediment pre-filter. This removes dust, dirt and other microscopic particles that cause the water to appear cloudy. Scaling is also reduced after this stage. This is followed by the removal of chlorine. The filter uses a mixture of KDF-55 and crushed mineral filter stone. KDF-55 is a copper-zinc oxidation media that is specifically used for the removal of chlorine. Apart from removing chlorine, this step also balances the pH in the water and prepares it for the final stage of filtration. Finally, the filter uses activated carbon to absorb impurities in the water. Carbon has long been used in filtration and is considered the most powerful absorbent.